New York Republicans are set to retain control of retiring Rep. Elise Stefanik’s seat in the 21st Congressional District, as Trump ally Anthony Constantino has declared a narrow victory over Democratic opponent Blake Gendebien. With 80% of the votes tallied, Constantino held a slim 2-point lead at 51% to 48.8% in the traditionally Republican district.
Constantino, the CEO of printing company Sticker Mule, addressed supporters, stating his intention to win over voters in the coming years. His projected win was a notable outcome on an election night where Republicans experienced setbacks elsewhere in the state. The race for Stefanik’s seat had been rated by The Cook Political Report as leaning toward Constantino.
Early in the election cycle, polls indicated a closer contest, with one Siena University poll showing Gendebien with a slight lead. The race tightened as Gendebien, a dairy farmer, gained traction. In an effort to bolster Constantino's campaign, Vice President J.D. Vance visited the district to rally support.
Constantino, who invested $17 million of his own funds into his campaign, thanked President Trump and Vance for their support. He also acknowledged political consultant Roger Stone. Constantino’s campaign was aligned with the MAGA movement, and he had previously supported Trump with a large "Vote for Trump" sign displayed at his factory and a bronze statue gifted to the former president.
Despite his victory, Constantino faced some internal party friction. He won the Republican nomination over Assemblyman Robert Smullen, who had the backing of the state Republican and Conservative Party establishments. The Conservative Party's ballot line for the election remained blank due to legal disputes involving Constantino.
Gendebien, running as a "conservative Democrat," attempted to distance himself from Governor Kathy Hochul and the progressive wing of his party. He declined to endorse Hochul for governor during a radio interview, stating his focus was on the North Country's success.
The campaign was marked by Constantino's theatrical approach, including a mock debate where a person in a chicken suit represented Gendebien. During his victory speech, Constantino also called for a presidential pardon for rapper "Diddy."